I just got a new COS (Landmann Offset/Brinkmann Trailmaster LE). I have been checking out the different mods to do to it so it performs better... baffles, exhaust extension, firebox lid/cook chamber gasket and latches. My question is about sealing the rest of it. I have seen some guys out there use Hi Temp Red RTV to seal up the two halves of the firebox, the connection between the firebox and cook chamber, and where the exhaust stack connects to the chamber. What do you guys think? I have noticed that some people have said not to do this around the firebox (between the halves and between the firebox/cook chamber) because the firebox would likely exceed the max temp of the RTV. Thoughts? What about using aluminum tape to do it instead?
Also, some have said about painting the smoker in high temp paint when its brand new... what do you guys think?

Also, some have said about painting the smoker in high temp paint when its brand new... what do you guys think?

I was guessing you were asking about painting on top of the original paint here. The cooker probably already has a high heat paint on it and should last a while the firebox paint will deteriorate first._________________Always remember slow and steady wins the race.
Hybrid Cooker